YOUR GUIDE TO STUDIO SHOOTS
Welcome to our guide for studio shoots! We’ve put together some tips and recommendations to help you have a fun, easy, successful studio session. If you have any questions about your upcoming studio shoot, please feel free to contact us.
PREPARATION
It’s a good idea to talk with your child(ren) beforehand about the photo session if they are old enough to understand. Explain what it will be like and what will be expected of them so they feel more comfortable. Please be patient with your children—a photography studio can be a strange place for little ones. That’s why our professional child/family photographers know how to be silly and caring at just the right times. We’re comfortable working with children of all ages and we’re prepared for unexpected situations and “kids being kids.” So relax, Mom and Dad! We’ll bring out the spirit and individuality of your child(ren) and the family.
Please be prepared to help us keep your child(ren) entertained and/or assist us in coaching your little superstars. Bring along a familiar face…a nanny, grandparent or friend, to help out while you’re in the shot with your child(ren).
MORE THAN ONE LOOK
It’s fun to capture more than one look, so consider bringing a change of clothes. You can personalize your portraits with special toys or stuffed animals, a favorite book, fun PJs (e.g., Superman or a night dress w/ matching doll), “dress up” clothes (e.g., princess or fireman), cute Halloween costumes for toddlers, uniforms/outfits from extra curricular activities (a soccer uniform or ballet leotard, tutu and slippers), cool hats, fancy dresses, casual denim…bring anything you cherish that reflects your child’s or family’s style and personality.
AVOID BUSY PATTERNS
Try to avoid busy patterns on your clothing such as checks, polka dots, stripes, large floral prints or plaid, as well as corporate logos and text, which draw attention away from your child(ren) and family.
YOUNG CHILDREN AND BABIES
If you have young children, try to plan your shoot around their schedule (just after a nap or meal). We may only have their attention for a brief period of time. Consider bringing a special toy, blanket, favorite music, or be prepared to sing your child(ren)’s favorite songs to keep them feeling safe and happy.
CANDY AND REWARDS
We highly recommend that parents refrain from giving candy or sugary foods to their children before and during the photo shoot. The sugar rush can make it difficult to hold their attention. Treats are a perfect reward after a job well done! With your permission, we have lollipops to give out at the end of your session.
LARGER GROUPS
For large family photos, it’s important to have some visual continuity within the group. We recommend that you decide on the style of your portrait (e.g., all formal, all jeans/khakis, all red and black, etc.) and make sure everyone knows the plan! You don’t need to dress “the same,” but do avoid colors and patterns that compete or conflict with one another.
When taking your family portrait, we ask that you let the photographer and his/her assistant work for your child(ren)’s attention. It’s best when parents stay focused on the camera at all times because a great moment can be lost if parents turn to watch or talk to their children.
PUNCTUALITY
Please be “photo ready” at the time of your scheduled appointment. You are welcome to arrive early and prepare in our dressing room facilities.
HAIR & MAKEUP
While we do keep some beauty products in the studio, you may prefer to bring your own hair brush, makeup, foundation and/or face powder to keep shine away. Makeup or no makeup, we hope our pictures show you and your child(ren) how beautiful you are!
